How I Constructed a Privacy Fence Without Needing Planning Permission

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When my family and I moved into our new home, we knew that one of the first projects we wanted to tackle was the installation of a privacy fence in our backyard. Living in a neighborhood with close proximity to neighboring houses, we were craving some added seclusion and security for our outdoor space. After doing some research, we discovered that in some cases, building a fence on your property can require obtaining planning permission from the local authorities. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find out that we could construct our privacy fence without needing to go through the process of obtaining planning permission. Here's how we did it, and the steps we took to successfully complete this project.

Research and Understanding Regulations

Before we delved into the construction process, we took the time to research the local regulations pertaining to the building of fences on residential properties. We found that in many cases, building a fence that is lower than a certain height and does not exceed specific provisions for materials and location on the property can often be done without requiring planning permission. We went through the local government website and also spoke with our neighbors who had previously built fences to gain a better understanding of the regulations and any potential restrictions that we had to be mindful of.

Selecting the Right Materials

With a clear understanding of the regulations, we started the process by selecting the appropriate materials for our fence. We wanted a durable and low-maintenance option, so we opted for composite fencing material that offered the look of wood but with the added benefit of being resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestation. Additionally, we found that by using this material, we were adhering to the local regulations on the types of materials allowed for fencing without needing planning permission.

Designing the Layout and Height

After selecting the materials, we moved onto designing the layout and height of our privacy fence. We wanted to ensure that the fence would provide the desired level of seclusion while also not exceeding the maximum height limit set by the local regulations. Using a measuring tape and stakes, we marked the outline of the fence, ensuring it stayed within the boundaries of our property lines and followed the designated height restrictions. This preliminary step proved to be crucial in avoiding any potential issues with our neighbors or local authorities in the future.

Obtaining Survey and Property Boundary Information

To further ensure that our fence was within our property boundaries and compliant with the regulations, we obtained a survey of our property and the exact location of the property boundaries. This step was essential in avoiding any encroachment onto neighboring properties, which could potentially result in legal disputes and the need for planning permission. It also provided us with the peace of mind that our fence was being constructed within the bounds of our property.

Commencing Construction

With all the preliminary steps completed, we began the construction of our privacy fence. We started by digging the post holes at regular intervals, ensuring they were at the correct depth and distance apart as per the recommended guidelines for the type of fencing material we were using. Once the posts were securely in place, we began attaching the fence panels, making sure they were level and properly aligned. Throughout the process, we continuously referenced the local regulations and property boundaries to ensure that we were in compliance.

Adding the Finishing Touches

As the construction of the fence neared completion, we added the finishing touches to enhance its functionality and aesthetics. We installed a self-closing gate that met safety standards and regulations, and also added some decorative elements to the top of the fence to give it a personalized touch. Despite being excited to have successfully built our privacy fence without needing planning permission, we made sure to perform a final inspection to ensure that everything was in accordance with the regulations before considering the project complete.

Benefits of Constructing a Fence Without Planning Permission

There were several notable benefits to being able to construct our privacy fence without needing planning permission. First and foremost, it saved us a significant amount of time and hassle that would have been involved in obtaining planning permission. It also reduced the associated costs, such as application fees and potential professional consultation fees. Additionally, by understanding and adhering to the local regulations, we were able to avoid potential conflicts with our neighbors or local authorities, and ensure that our privacy fence was compliant and legally sound.

Conclusion

Constructing a privacy fence without needing planning permission proved to be a manageable and rewarding project for our family. By taking the time to research and understand the local regulations, select appropriate materials, design the layout, obtain property boundary information, and ensure compliance throughout the construction process, we were able to successfully complete the project without encountering any legal hurdles. The added seclusion and security that our privacy fence provides has significantly enhanced our outdoor living space, and we are pleased with the outcome of the project. We hope that our experience can serve as a helpful guide for others who are considering similar projects and wish to undertake them without the need for planning permission.